Mauser Carbine 98 AZ / Mauserkarabiner 98 AZ: (more commonly known as the Kar. 98 AZ) AZ stands for Aufplanz- und Zusammensetzvorrichtung – or stacking hook – one could stand the carbines up in 3s linked to each other by means of the metal hook, at the end of the barrel. Although designated as a 2nd line weapon, designed for support troops, cavalry etc., many did end up being issued to Stormtrooper units. The Carbine 98 AZ, which was shorter and therefore easier to handle than the standard issued Gewehr 98 rifle used by the infantry proved just as useful. They both had about the same performance within the reduced ranges of trench warfare. A further advantage over the Gewher 98 was that the turn-downed bolt folded against the stock of the carbine with an added undercut into the wood, therefore reducing the danger of being snagged on uniforms and equipment etc. The bolt handle also had a chequered under surface to increase grip. The side-slug sling attachment allowed for a better handling when one was using their hands (cavalry, artillery) and not just marching.

Some examples of the Kar. 98 AZ show the indented finger grooves on the stock – these were a war-time modification, still seen on many of the post-war carbines, now found in museums and with collectors.

Unmistakable on the original photo is the muzzle protector attached to the end of carbine barrel, in front of the foresight. The front of the protector had a hinged cap, which could be lifted upwards if required in a hurry.

Gas Mask Tin M16 / Bereitschaftsbüchse M16: At the beginning of 1915, the early type gas masks were issued without any form of container or holder and were often placed within the haversack (bread bag) or in some cases kept in tins, which were fastened by string around the soldier’s neck. Later in 1915, the Canvas Gas Mask Holder, with dividing sections within was issued – Segeltuchtasche für Gasmaske M1915 – here the mask, filter unit and spare filter were kept in tins within and still had to be opened and attached when required. The holder was officially worn on the left side of belt, but is quite often seen at rear, next to the haversack.

In March 1916, the German War Ministry announced the distribution of a Gas Mask Tin, which held the ready for use mask with filter unit already attached. Until the issuing in sufficient numbers, the troops had to do with tins of different manufactures, including the existing canvas holders being modified to carry the mask with filter unit attached.

In June 1916 the Gas Mask Tin M16 / Bereitschaftsbüchse M16 was issued, together with a leather strap, later made from canvas for attachment around the neck. The bottom tin attachment loop could also be attached to a front tunic button, holding the tin in the standby position. If not in this position, the gas tin was kept as before within the canvas holder or slung around the back. Within the tin, the mask could be kept with filter unit attached and ready for use. The gas tins were used until the end of the war, but parallel the new and slightly higher M17 tins were being issued from mid-1917.

Colour: original items show a diversity of colours used on these tins, ranging from field-grey to dark or Khaki-green.

Notes from Sculptor

On the model there is a seam running from top to bottom on the side of tin – this is the overlap join when the can was manufactured, distinctive on the original items. The area behind the 3 strap attachments has been filled out slightly for casting reasons – this can be removed if required.

Gas Mask Spectacles / Gasmaskenbrille: The gas mask spectacles were specifically designed to be worn together with the mask and issued for front-line use to soldiers requiring vision aids. On the normal spectacles of the time, the side arms prevented the mask from fitting tightly against the face, allowing gas to enter. These glasses had short v-shaped double arms, hinged to the front, with adjustable cotton straps, which then looped around the ears securing the glasses in place.

Other Ranks Field Cap M1910 / Feldmütze M1910: Made out of a field grey material. The piping was in red for all units and the band in black for Pioneer, Artillery & Transport units. The two metal Kokarden badges at the front are – top: national colours Die Reichsfarben: black, white and red (from outwards to the centre) and – bottom: represents the German State where the unit was raised – e.g. Prussia – Preußen: black, white and black. Bavaria – Bayern: white, light blue and white etc.